Well it seems everyone has a view on Lake Waituna, even those that have never set foot in the catchment, never fished, hunted ducks or farmed in the area.

Wires crossed at Waituna
It would seem the authorities controlling the lagoon have got their wires crossed. The lagoon is going to flip, seagrass is dying and algae growth and sediment are taking over...

Waituna Lagoon
- the farmers' perspective -
Most of the publicity about Waituna Lagoon has been about the health of the wetland complex, and how it is likely to flip at any time. Farmers in the catchment have borne the brunt of the blame for the lagoon's high nutrient status, but now with extra regulations likely to be forced upon them, the farmers have had enough and they are speaking out.

Wool prices still on the rise in NZ

New Zealand Wool Services International Ltd reported that demand at this week's wool sale was strong, driving prices up by between three and nine per cent... although a slightly weaker New Zealand dollar accounted for some of the rise, a diminishing supply coming under continued heavy demand was the main market driver.

Dairy footprint smaller
now than in the 1940s

With all the talk of carbon footprints these days it is interesting to note recent research from Cornell University has found that today's dairy farmers actually have a smaller "footprint" than their predecessors.

Downturn may be nearing end, but recovery not assured
Households, businesses, banks and policy-makers should be thinking how they can influence recovery and ensure it is sustainable, Reserve Bank Governor Alan Bollard said today.

Mixed bag at North Island wool sale
New Zealand Wool Services International Ltd reports prices at today's auction of North Island wool in Napier were mixed as demand for some types was negated by a higher New Zealand dollar.

Does planting native trees near vineyards increase bird pressure?
With the increased plantings of vineyards throughout New Zealand the problem of grape damage by birds has become a huge problem.